Do you know when it will be mandatory to have the V16 beacon connected in your car? If you drive in Spain, this new regulation is essential for your safety and to avoid fines. Discover the official calendar, key deadlines, and how to prepare for the final change.
What is the V16 beacon and why is it important?
The V16 beacon is a luminous emergency warning device that will replace traditional warning triangles. It is mounted on the roof of the vehicle, emitting an intense yellow light visible from a great distance, alerting other drivers to a possible incident or breakdown.
This sign helps improve road safety by minimizing the risk of collisions by not requiring people to leave their vehicles to place it. It is especially useful on highways and motorways, where accidents involving the placement of triangles have been common.
The official calendar: When does the V16 beacon come into effect?
The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has established a transition schedule for the gradual implementation of the V16 beacon in Spain. This plan includes a coexistence period and a deadline for mandatory use.
- Until December 31, 2025 : You can use both the emergency triangles and the approved V16 beacon (whether connected or not).
- From January 1, 2026 : Only one connected V16 beacon, i.e. one capable of transmitting the vehicle's location to the DGT cloud in the event of an emergency, will be valid.
It's essential to adhere to these deadlines to comply with regulations and protect your safety.
Approved V16 beacon: essential features
Not all V16 beacons are the same. Their use has been permitted since 2021, but only those that meet current approval standards can be used. By 2026, regulations will require additional features.
- DGT Certification : Make sure you purchase a certified beacon. It must bear the corresponding marking and appear on the official DGT list.
- Connectivity : From January 2026, only connected beacons capable of automatically transmitting the vehicle's location to the DGT via an integrated SIM card will be valid.
- Range and visibility : Must be visible 1 km in 360º under any weather conditions.
- Autonomy and simple operation : Easy to start, and battery that lasts at least 18 months.
Purchasing and/or using the wrong device could result in penalties or leave you unprotected in an emergency.
Benefits of the V16 beacon compared to the traditional triangle
The introduction of the V16 beacon brings significant advantages over triangles, both in terms of comfort and road safety.
- No need to leave the vehicle : Thanks to its small size and powerful light, you can install it without leaving the passenger compartment, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Greater visibility : Its flashing amber light is visible from a long distance and in any lighting conditions.
- Connectivity for faster help : The connected V16 beacon automatically reports your location, speeding up the response time for emergency services.
- Less time on the road in the event of a breakdown or accident : The process is quick and easy, reducing the minutes exposed to danger.
These advantages make the V16 beacon a safe bet for the protection of the driver and passengers.
What happens if you don't have the V16 beacon on the specified date?
Failure to comply with the V16 hazard warning may result in fines from the authorities. Using only triangles after January 1, 2026, will be considered an infraction. Furthermore, in the event of an incident, you could be held liable if you failed to use the appropriate signaling equipment.
Therefore, it's advisable to anticipate the deadline and purchase an approved V16 connected beacon before it comes into force. This will help you avoid fines, ensure your protection, and facilitate the work of emergency teams.
Quick Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right V16 Beacon
Choosing the right V16 beacon involves considering several factors to ensure you comply with the law and optimize your safety.
- Check DGT approval : The beacon must include the certification number visible.
- Check connectivity : Ask if it has an integrated system for connecting to the DGT cloud, an essential requirement for 2026.
- Ease of use : Ideally, a design that is easy to activate in case of nervousness or emergency.
- Guaranteed autonomy : Check the lifespan of the battery or cells, and how to replace them.
- Warranty Conditions : Choose models with a recognized warranty and after-sales service.
Shopping in advance allows you to compare, look for deals, and avoid last-minute rushes, where quality products often sell out.
What if you already purchased an unconnected V16 beacon?
If you purchased your beacon before 2022, it may only comply with the first phase of the regulations, but may not function as a connected device. Remember that starting January 1, 2026, only beacons that transmit location data will be valid. Plan to replace your previous model if it doesn't include a SIM card and mandatory connectivity.
Check the manufacturer's website or the DGT list to avoid surprises and ensure your device meets the requirements of the regulatory change.
Tips for using the V16 beacon correctly
Knowing when the V16 beacon comes into effect is just as important as knowing how to use it properly. Here are some recommendations to get the most out of it:
- Place it on the roof of your vehicle as soon as possible after stopping due to a breakdown or accident.
- Avoid exposure to traffic : Activate the V16 beacon without leaving the vehicle, just by lowering the window and placing it on the roof of the vehicle.
- Perform regular checks of the battery and the overall condition of the device.
- Keep it within the driver's reach : Facilitates quick use in any situation.
Also, check the manufacturer's manual for specific features and the best way to keep your beacon functional for years to come.
The entry into force of the V16 beacon and car insurance
Car insurance companies are closely monitoring the implementation of the V16 beacon. Failure to display it after the mandatory date may affect roadside assistance coverage and liability in an accident. Check with your insurer to see if they require this device as a condition for certain services.
Adopting the connected V16 not only helps you comply with the law, but also supports proper post-accident care and avoids insurance issues.
Conclusion
The implementation of the connected V16 beacon represents a crucial advance in Spanish road safety. Prepare ahead of time to comply with the regulations and effectively protect yourself on the road. Check your equipment, update it if necessary, and drive safely knowing you're complying with the law.
